BELFAST-native Kirsty Devlin claimed Team Ireland’s first gold medal at the Special Olympics World Summer Games.
The 21-year-old gymnast claimed the medal after impressing in the Gymnastics Rhythmic Level 1.
Devlin also won a second gold, two silver and a fourth place ribbon in various sections of the gymnastics competition.
The Irish gymnastic team enjoyed further success with Limerick’s Ashleigh O’Hagan claiming two bronze medals and Cork’s Aoife O’Sullivan winning gold and two bronze medals.
Speaking after her win, O’Hagan said: "It's absolutely fantastic and a great achievement. I’m proud as punch.”
Meanwhile, Westmeath man Peter Malynn also won gold in the final of the singles bocce competition, with the final score 9-7.
Team Ireland’s Bowling team added to the medal haul, with a bronze in the Doubles event for Martina Walsh from Mayo and Ruth Geerah from Westmeath.
Robbie Keane with Team Ireland 11-a-side manager Paul Martyn (Photo: Facebook)The 11-a-side footballers may have had Irish soccer star Robbie Keane cheering them on from the sidelines as they faced Bangladesh in their first group game, but they suffered a 4-1 loss.
The LA Galaxy captain praised the team’s performance and offered a few words of encouragement following the game.
"The scoreline didn’t do the lads justice. They are obviously disappointed but it’s important they pick themselves back up now," he said.
At the end of day three Team Ireland have won 15 medals: Four gold, three silver and eight bronze.
